Center for Nonprofits receives $671,500 in storm-damage relief

The Center for Nonprofits at St. Mary’s in Rogers, owned by the Harvey and Bernice Jones Trust and Jones Center in Springdale, has received a combined $671,500 in grants for storm-damage relief from area organizations, including Excellerate Foundation, Tyson Foods, Walmart Foundation and Walton Family Foundation.

The Center for Nonprofits at 1200 W. Walnut St. was significantly damaged during the May 26 tornado that destroyed or damaged hundreds of homes and businesses in Benton County, including downtown Rogers. The Walnut Street (U.S. Highway 71 Business) corridor in Rogers was particularly hard hit.

The center opened 10 days after the storm and continues to operate while repairs are underway. Despite insurance coverage, out-of-pocket repair expenses have approached $1 million.

Several area organizations have provided grants to help with the unexpected expenses. JE Allen Co. also reduced construction costs with an in-kind donation of $29,000 worth of ceiling tiles.

“We are grateful for the outpouring of support,” said Joe Lloyd III, CEO of Jones Trust and Jones Center. “These grants directly impact the Jones Trust’s ability to help our nonprofit affiliates continue their important work.”

The Center for Nonprofits is home to 69 nonprofit and community-service organizations. Since 2008, the center, formerly Mercy health system St. Mary’s Hospital, has provided below-market-rate leases for the organizations. The Jones Trust also has nonprofit office space at the JTL Shop on Emma Avenue in Springdale.

Combined, the two spaces offer more than 100 nonprofits with lease rates that are about half of the market rate, saving them more than $2.4 million annually. The Jones Trust can offer the discounted rates because of an endowment created by the Harvey and Bernice Jones estate and community contributions.